Global Fat Bike Day @ ILRA


Saturday, Dec 2nd, 2023 –

The original & still the best!

The 1st Saturday in December is reserved for fatties to rule the world! Come join us for a 10 AM picture & waiver sign, then roll the Badlands at your leisure!

We’ll put out ribbons like in years past to mark the lesser known trails! Expect 6-10 miles in the Badlands, and continue on to ride the regular mountain bike trail if you choose!

We will meet at the parking lot at Springmill Pond within Island Lake State Park in Brighton, MI at 10 am for a group photo!

Post-ride festivities will be BYOB or many of us head down to Draught Horse Brewing!

Some FAQ’s answered:
Q: Is this the regular mountain bike trail?
A: No, this is an abandoned mine site. We will have 2 loops flagged that utilize some existing trails, we’ve trimmed them back a bit, but expect loose sand, mud, tall grasses, and everything else that would deter a normal mountain bike.

Q: Will there be people to show us around?
A: Yes, we have quite a few veterans of the Badlands that naturally lead these rides?

Q: What air pressure should I run?
A: I don’t know anything about your tires, rims, riding style or how much you weigh, so I don’t know the answer!

Q: Will there be beer?
A: We didn’t pull an alcohol permit, & that jack’s up the insurance rate for a free ride, so it will be BYOB if you want to have one.

Q: Can I cross the fences and ride the fun stuff on the other side?
A: Absolutely not, the fence separates he inactive mining site from the active mine site. Don’t ruin the opportunity by crossing it!

Q: What should I wear?
A: Clothes. Warning, this is a social ride, and most of the groups are only as fast as the slowest person. If you’re faster and part of a large group, expect to wait around a bit for the slower riders, dress warmer in this case so you don’t get cold waiting. If you’re slower…..then dress normally for the weather. 


  • Rouge Park

    Rouge Park

    Library > Trails > Rouge Park

  • Curious about your membership?

    Curious about your membership?

    The MMBA Metro South chapter has joined the IMBA chapter program and adopted a new name, but we’re still the same people, doing the same work. If you were a member of the MMBA, your membership should have transferred to our new IMBA chapter.  Need to renew your membership or join? Sign up for your…

  • FAQ Volunteers

    FAQ Volunteers

    Our volunteers contribute in a variety of ways, from simply trimming branches, to organizing fund raising events with hundreds of participants, to designing some of the best trails in America. We track volunteer work hours and reward our outstanding volunteers at the end of each year.